CSB deploys to chemical release site in Kansas

Investigators to look into incident that caused thousands to seek medical attention

Posted October 31, 2016

An investigative team from the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) has deployed to the scene of a chemical release that led to a shelter-in-place order for thousands of residents. At least 85 members of the public required medical attention in Atchison, Kansas.

The release occurred at a facility that produces distilled spirits and specialty wheat proteins and starches.

The CSB’s four-person investigative team will be led by Supervisory Investigator Johnnie Banks.

Chairperson Vanessa Allen Sutherland said, “This incident underscores the very serious consequences that can occur when a chemical release goes beyond a facility’s fence line and impacts nearby residents.”

The CSB is an independent federal agency charged with investigating industrial chemical accidents. The agency’s board members are appointed by the president and confirmed by the Senate. CSB investigations look into all aspects of chemical accidents, including physical causes such as equipment failure as well as inadequacies in regulations, industry standards, and safety management systems.